Marry By Choice Not Force

Edward kept his dark eyes focused on the Princess as she ranted about Henry, he knew it was coming after everything the Prince was putting her through in that castle. He could only imagine what she was being forced into, he had seen innocent girls around the town who have either fallen for Henry or he has gotten his hands on them. Each one has have their life ruined by the Prince, not that they say his name of course. "Don't apologize, you have the right to be talking in this way. You never wanted this and shouldn't have to go through with this, I am sorry that he is upsetting you." Edward told the beautiful Princess.

"No, I haven't been in love before. I don't have the time to be with anyone, the Prince is making sure that I keep busy." He told her and ran his fingers through his dark hair, "You could leave this Kingdom. It would be the only way that you could be away from him, it sounds like your parents are glad to marry you off to him. Although they wouldn't have seen the real him, he enjoys playing games." He wished that he could do more to help Margaret, but he was just a stable boy who no one would listen to even if he tried to help her.

She was beautiful and deserved more than a horrible man like Henry, her long red hair shone in the sun and moon light. It gave life to her flawless fair skin, skin that he was becoming desperate to touch as he just knew that her skin would be silky smooth and so soft.

---

A blush settled across Poppy's cheeks as her eyes never once left Daniel, she knew that he'd think up a plan if they needed one. She trusted him completely, even though she had tried so hard not to let herself trust him. "Your brother will not want us here, I'll be tearing your family apart" She told him already feeling guilty about what they were doing, if she married Hamish than she wouldn't be happy but if she was with Daniel than his family would suffer. "If you need to think about this then I understand, the wedding is soon" She looked into the dark eyes that she was steadily falling for, all she wanted was to be with him.

She moved her palms over his sides to his back, her fingers moved over the muscles and over his shoulder blades. She gently let her head drop so her forehead was resting on his shoulder, if he wanted her then they'd have to leave. They would be a disgrace to both families, they'd have to leave and find a Kingdom or village to start their new life in.

Daniel shook his head his forehead pressed to hers. "I don't need to think this over Poppy. I know what I want. I know it would kill my mother but my family have always favoured Hamish over me. I suppose with good reason but he has always got the upper hand." Daniel realised what he was saying and how selfish he was being pulling away he looked into the blondes blue eyes.

"What about you? What do you want? Do you want to marry Hamish and become Queen... or... a life with me, the son that neither parents want?" he asked. Sure he wasn't as clean cut as his brother and he had his demons but if the Princess wanted to have a life with him he would try and put them behind him.

Daniel needed to know if this was also what she wanted. If it wasn't then their feelings would have to remain secret. He would keep up his bad boy facade which he was sure he could do, but he wasn't sure he could watch his brother marry her. He was certain that he couldn't watch his brother marry her.

---

Margaret smiled at the brunette, "My parents only see the side he wants them to see, the loving fiancé, the man that would make the perfect husband. They don't see his cruel, sarcastic side." tears welled in her eyes as she thought about her parents and how they had been so easily tricked into leaving her under false pretences. How they thought that Henry was going to look after their only daughter make her a queen stay loyal and create the perfect family. How wrong were they.

"I would do anything to leave this castle, to rid myself of Henry. I would wipe my identity, I would become anything, anything that isn't of noble birth, a seamstress, a maid, a cook anything to rid myself of this life that I have been thrown into." she confessed loudly her voice wavering with emotion.

All Edward could do was sit there and listen to what the Princess was telling him, he knew that the Prince was a horrible being but now he truly knew just how horrible Henry was and could be to anyone that he didn't want to waste time on. He had no clue what he could have with Margaret, he could actually be happy for once in his life and he would have the perfect life with Margaret but he was throwing that away. Edward wasn't going to stand back and watch the Princess live a miserable life because of one person making it that way, he moved closer to her and gently used his handkerchief to catch a tear that had escaped down her cheek.

"I own a horse, it isn't a royal horse but he's just as fast. We'd both be happy to take you away from this Kingdom, though I will warn you that he can have some moody moments" He smiled as it was true, Flame was a dark brunette horse who could be fiery with passion or a grumpy mess.

---

A frown formed on Poppy's face as she looked at him, "Don't say or think that about yourself. Hamish was the first born, but you have so many qualities. Yes, you tend to do what you like and don't listen to others but you are a good person. All the good in you, drew me to you" She told him as she didn't want him to think like that about himself, he was a bad boy who did things he shouldn't. But that didn't define him and she knew that Daniel was a caring and sweet man, she gently cupped his cheeks in her hands as she gazed into his dark eyes.

"Your parents may not want you but I do, I couldn't care less about being a Queen unless I'm your Queen. I don't love Hamish, I tried to make myself love him but you always got in the way of that. If I didn't want you, would I be standing here in front of you in just my undergarments? No, I wouldn't be." She smiled at him as she finally realised that he is who she wanted to be with, she wanted to be with him. Either they stay there and she gets married to his brother, or they could run away and make a life together somewhere else.

Daniel couldn't help the smile that spread across his face and the way his chest swelled with happiness. He had never imagined he would hear the blonde say this to him. She loved him. She didn't love Hamish, she had tried but it hadn't worked. She loved him and he couldn't have been happier. Poppy was willing to run away with him and start a life away from all the glitz and glamour of being royal.

"Three nights from now, I will come for you." he said. He had three days to figure out how he was going to sneak away with her, how the two of them were going to leave the castle. He would take his horse and food for the journey and hopefully they could find somewhere to stay. A family that would show them kindness and take them in. Quickly he pressed his lips against hers again before bidding her goodnight and turning and walking out of the room.

---

Margaret looked up at the young male, through her tears she allowed a smile to spread across her face. Automatically her mind went into overdrive as she thought over what the male had just said. As confident he sounded he must have been scared. If Henry found him he would be dead.

"Are you sure about this?" the question fell from her lips before she could stop it. Looking up she waited for his answer.

Edward couldn't have been more sure of himself, yes he was scared but he knew what he was doing. "Yes my Princess, I have family far from here. By horse it will take two full days of riding, no one here knows so Henry won't find us. Papa will let you stay for as long as you need, you can work out what to do next" He told her even though he was tempted to go with her, he was worried that she'd become lost or get into trouble. Flame knew the way to Papa's small village but Edward was still concerned about Margaret.

He couldn't help but look into her beautiful eyes, "I could join you" He blurted out without even thinking about what he had said, he couldn't just go with the Princess. He was a stable boy and that is all he'll ever be, especially in the eyes of royals.

---

Poppy wanted to complain about having to wait three days, though she didn't when she kissed him and walked him leave. She knew that he'd need to come up with a plan as they couldn't just sneak away, they needed to make sure that they weren't captured. She sighed softly as she climbed into her bed and pulled the covers over her body, she laid there thinking about Daniel and a smile was plastered on her face. She was so happy, the younger Prince made her happy and she was still shocked by it.

Sleep didn't come easy to her that night, she was thinking about which way they should travel in first. What they were going to do and what she would take with them, she'd have to take her riding clothes as that was the only time she could wear pants. A dress would only slow her down, so she'd ask for a few more shirts and pants to be quickly made for her. She'd of course lie about the reason.

Daniel entered his sleeping quarters, slipping out of clothes, he had just taken his shirt off when a shuffle alerted him to someone in his room. Spinning he turned and saw Claudia standing before him. Her bonnet was removed from her head exposing her long wavy locks, her lips were pulled back in a smile.

"My lord," she spoke bowing before the royal. Daniel's brows instantly rose at the way she was acting. It was only a few hours earlier she had been sucking up to his brother trying to cancel the wedding of the century.

"Can I help you?" he asked a slight bite to his tone, he wasn't in the mood to see her he had to figure out what he is going to do about Poppy and their get away. A low chuckle left her lips as she stepped further into his chamber.

"You seem irritated my lord..." she began her tone soft and smooth her dark eyes trailed up his naked chest before locking with his. "Perhaps a massage to ease the tension?" Daniel didn't know what she was trying to do but when he saw the way her hands trailed up her chest undoing the buttons exposing her milky chest he had to fight the urge to take her there and then.

"Get out," he ordered, Claudia simply laughed as she walked toward him. The maid looked up at him through her lashes as she caught her soft pink lip between her teeth.

"Daniel, we both know that you want it... you can't fight the urge for too long... you are a man who enjoys women, many women, and here I am before you... giving myself to you and you know you want me..." she purred as she stepped so close to him he could smell the sweetness of her perfume. Closing his eyes he inhaled deeply his hands trailing up her arms, "Yes..." she purred. However a cry broke from her lips when his clamped his hands around her upper arms tightly. He pulled her through his bedroom door and down the stairwell all the time she cried out and screamed loudly but Daniel didn't care if anyone heard.

---

Margaret couldn't help the wide smile that spread across her face at the mention of a place far away from the castle she could go and seek refuge. Excitement filled her body and she could have cried out with happiness but instead she lunged into the stable boys arms knocking him over.

"Thank you, thank you so much," she thanked him over and over. It took her a few moments before she realised she was laying in the hay with him, their bodies tangled together. "Oh my..." she began, "I am terribly sorry." she apologised as she pulled herself away from him. Getting to her feet she brushed herself off before reaching out one of her hands and helping the male to his feet.

"I would like you to come with me, at least I know if you are with me you will be treated with respect however with Henry I am positive that would not be the case... So yes Edward I would be honoured to have you accompany me."

Edward was more than shocked when the beautiful Princess lunged herself at him, he had tried to keep his balance but ended up on his back. His hands rested on her back as he wasn't sure if he was allowed to hug the royal, "You do not need to thank me." He assured her as he didn't feel right with her thanking him, honestly he would help anyone who was about to marry the worst Prince in all the kingdoms.

He took her hand and stood up, though he didn't need help up. He just really wanted to hold her small soft hand in his own. "Oh I couldn't accompany you, Princess. I'm only a stable boy," He shook his head lightly, he would love to accompany her but he wasn't worthy enough to spend anymore time with her.

Nerves filled his body when he noticed that he was still holding onto her hand, he quickly let go as his cheeks grew flushed. "The village is not hard to find, I will give you a map." He told her, all she had to do was tell him that he was going with her one more time. He'd pack up all his belongings right that second, not that he had many belongings but he could still fill a small bag.

---

Poppy was still laying in bed when she heard a female scream, she flung the covers off her body and jumped out of bed. She rushed out of her room in the night dress she was wearing, her blonde hair bouncing with her movements as she followed the noise. A deep frown creased her brows when she realised the direction that the noise was coming from, she was heading towards Daniel's chambers.

Her bare feet froze to the ground, her blue eyes widened at the sight that was before her. Daniel's hands were gripping Claudia's arms, the top of her dress was unbuttoned and the younger Prince was shirtless. Jealousy and pain flowed through her body and begun to attack her heart, she didn't care if Daniel was moving the maid from his chambers. He had still touched her and had seen her bare chest, after everything Claudia has done recently and what Daniel had planned to do with her. Seeing them together hurt all that much more.

"Daniel, Claudia?" She heard the voice of Hamish sound from behind her as he too must have heard the noises, "Oh Hamish." She gasped as she turned around and buried her face into the Prince's chest, she needed to act like she was disturbed by what she was seeing. She was but she was mostly hurt and felt betrayed by Daniel.

Daniel heard his brothers voice and out of the corner of his eye he saw the blonde haired Princess. He didn't know what he looked like in her eyes and he was a little ashamed because he could only imagine what she could possibly think. He was shirtless and Claudia had the top of her dress undone. It most certainly was not a good look but as soon as he had sorted out his maid he would return to Poppy and tell her what happened. He couldn't have her be mad at him. Not after what he had just arranged with her.

The dark haired male stalked through the corridors and hallways of the castle until he came to his parents quarters, he knew they would still be up. He barged in startling the two before he threw the scullery maid to the ground a cry breaking from his lips as her body came in harsh contact with the stone floor.

"Daniel..." it was his mother that spoke she was shocked at his outburst and Daniel knew that. His dark eyes scanned between his mother and father who stood before him and Claudia confusion spread across their faces.

"Get rid of this whore..." he spat venomously not even looking down at the woman.

"Daniel?" it was the King this time who spoke. Daniel heard the tapping of soft soled shoes on the castle floor and he knew that it was both Hamish and Poppy entering.

"This woman came into my chambers unannounced and when told to leave she did not instead she tried to get me to sleep with her. I will not tolerate this... As for what she was trying to do to Hamish and Princess Poppy's wedding..."

"What!" the Queen spoke up her light eyes flicking down to the maid who was now trying to quickly cover her chest. "Hamish..." she looked at her oldest son. "What has this maid been trying to do?"

Hamish looked at his mother and father but stayed silent as he looked at Claudia he couldn't help but feel a little sorry for her, she had been thrown before his parents in a state of undress. The room fell into a silence. Both royals were looking at their eldest son now awaiting his answer but it never came. Daniel was about to blurt it out until the sweet sound of Poppy's voice silenced him.

---

Margaret looked at the stable boy and instantly she knew that if she was too leave the King would suspect that one of the workers would be part of it. Henry would tear them apart until he got the truth and the red head would not allow such a kind man to be tortured for knowledge. She watched as the dark haired male turned to walk away she quickly grabbed his arm ceasing his movements.

"It is not an invitation Edward. It is an order. I will not allow you to stay here when I leave. The King will suspect things and I can assure you he will not stop until he has uncovered the truth. Also it is not safe for a woman to travel the roads alone." she indicated.

"We will leave three nights from now. The next full moon, we leave this place when it is high in the sky." As Margaret thought about it she realised that full moon was the best time as it allowed them light as they travelled.

Edward froze slightly when he felt the Princess grab a hold of his arm, he slowly turned to look at her as her soft voice filled his ears. "Even if The King wants answers from me, I would never speak about this. He could do what he pleased," He told her knowing he would be one of the first people the King came after, he wasn't scared of the royals in the Kingdom. He didn't even need to stay in that Kingdom, than the King would have to find another stable boy.

"An order?" A smile formed across his face as a cheeky spark shone in his dark eyes, "I am sure that you could handle yourself, my Princess. If you would like my company, you should simply tell me. I know I am irresistible to you, but you need to learn control." He said jokingly as his smile turned into a grin as he looked at Margaret, the way her fair milky skin looked so incredibly soft.

How the dress covering her body was made perfectly for her, the silky fabric clung to her womanly body and only some cleavage was showing. Though he wished the dress fitted higher, closer to her collarbones. He shouldn't look but couldn't help it, he felt jealous about other men doing the same thing. Many men would admire her beauty though not many were able to be this close to her, something came over him causing him to reached out his hand. His fingers delicately ran through her fiery red locks, the locks that flowed down her back. His fingers brushed along the curve of the back of her neck, he leaned even closer to the beautiful Princess and pressed his lips to her forehead. It was a sweet kiss that lingered, "I will be ready." He whispered to her as he would be ready all day along.

---

Poppy stood there in the King and Queen's chambers, her blue eyes moved to Hamish when his parents awaited his answer about what Claudia had tried to do to their future wedding. She waited like his family but he never spoke, she saw his eyes were on the maid once again. "Claudia has tried to start rumors about me, she has tried to seduce Hamish more times than I like to remember. Today she tried to stop the wedding," She looked at the King and Queen, she knew the Queen would be more than appalled as she was so excited about her eldest son's wedding.

She watched the frown and disgust form on their faces as they glanced down at the maid, Poppy did feel bad considering Claudia was trying to cover her breasts. Though she shouldn't have tried to sleep with Daniel and none of this would have happened, "I will not allow her to destroy anything else." She spoke her mind before bowing in front of the King and Queen, she turned to exit and begun to make her way towards her chambers.

"She needs to be comforted," Nadine spoke as her pretty light eyes focused on her oldest son, "Your father and I will deal with the maid." She told her son's, she had been expecting Hamish to exit their sleep chamber but she was shocked as she watched Daniel step out.

Poppy heard rushed footsteps behind her, she didn't turn around or stop until she was inside the privacy of her chamber. "I need one answer and tell me the truth, seeing Claudia like that, did you have any feelings? Were you tempted by her and her body?" She asked seeing Daniel shut the door behind her, she looked at him clearly upset that the maid had exposed herself to the man that she loved and wanted for herself. Before he could even answer her, she frowned at him and raised her arms. Her hands pressed against his bare chest as she did her best to shove him, "You're suppose to be mine. Only mine, Daniel."

"I am yours Princess," he spoke grabbing her wrists as she tried to shove him ceasing her movements. "I will always be yours," he stated as he looked down at her his dark eyes burning into her light ones. "Poppy, I don't normally do relationships, I am still figuring everything out, I am learning... be patient with me." it was the truth Daniel was never one for relationships he preferred one night stands with women love them and leave them but for the blonde he wanted to be more. He wanted more then one night with her.

"Poppy you know me, you know what my nature is. Can't you be happy that I showed restraint with Claudia. You know deep down that it is a step in the right direction for me. I could have bedded her but instead I didn't. Instead I threw her before my parents bare breasted and all telling them to get rid of her."

The dark haired prince looked at the blonde seeing the tears that trailed down her cheeks, reaching out he ran the pads of his thumbs underneath her eyes and slowly moved his face closer to hers.

"I love you Poppy and only you," he stated before he pressed his lips against hers in a passionate kiss.

---

Margaret laughed at the joking manner that Edward had about him but the laughter stuck in her throat when she felt him gently run his fingers through her long hair. Her light eyes looked up into his and she saw nothing but warmth and kindness. Margaret knew she would be safe around him, there was no hint of malice or anger. When his fingers trailed down the curve of the back of her neck her breath stuck in her throat.

This was all new to her, the red haired Princess had never been touched by another male with such kindness. his calloused fingers felt oddly satisfying on her smooth porcelain like skin. A heat set across her cheeks causing her to pull her gaze away and look at the ground between both their feet. A quiet gasp fell from her lips when she felt his lips on her forehead.

Margaret could have cried with joy when he said he would be ready, everything was heightened she was excited, scared, thankful, an array of emotions that in that moment she leant up and pressed her lips against the males unconsciously.

Edward had no idea what had come over him, but he wasn't embarrassed or sorry for touching the princess. He didn't know her all that well, but he knew she needed his help and that she really was a sweetheart. However he was a little surprised when Margaret leaned closer to him and pressed a kiss to his lips, soon the surprise wore off and he returned the kiss. His arm wrapped securely around her small waist, his hand still resting on the back of her neck as he kept her in place close to her.

He parted from her lips much to soon for his liking, his dark eyes found her light ones as a big dorky smile formed on his face. "Amazing," He whispered as he couldn't actually think of anything else to say, he was filled with happiness and joy but knew it was getting late and Margaret needed to get back to the castle before someone notices that she is missing.

"I would like you to stay with me, though you need to get to your chambers. I will see you again tomorrow, my sweet Margaret." He spoke to her kindly and how Henry should speak to her, he moved his hand from her neck to cup her soft cheek. "Sleep well and be strong, I know you can." He told her and leaned down to pressed another kiss to her lips, he couldn't get enough of how warm and soft her lips were.

Once she left, he'd have to pinch himself to make sure he wasn't dreaming all of this. It would be a wonderful dream, though he was more interested in it being his reality. A small sigh escaped his lips when he found it hard to let the princess step away from him, he wouldn't know if Henry was rude or hurt her until it was done as he wasn't allowed inside the castle.

---

Poppy stood there and listened to the prince speak to her, "I understand all of that. I know this is new to you and that you did show restraint, though she should have never revealed herself like that. Not to anyone," She was a little jealous that Claudia had exposed her breasts to Daniel, when he should only be seeing her's from that moment in her chambers earlier. "You forget what her's look like," She told him firmly, "You shall only see and remember mine when that times comes." She knew that he liked one night stands, she couldn't stop herself from being jealous over those women.

They didn't mean anything, although they had still been with Daniel in all the ways that Poppy wished to be with him. She wanted to love her body and touch her in all the ways that a man she loved was allowed, that time would come later which was beginning to frustrate the princess.

"I will be patient and I will help with what I can," She smiled at him and closed her eyes when his lips pressed to her's passionately, his lips weren't helping the fact that she wanted to bed him right there and then. It was too risky for him to even kiss her, let alone be with her. "I love you, Daniel." She whispered as they parted to take a breath of air, "I apologize for doubting you." She looked into his eyes letting her hands rest on the sides of his waist.

Daniel had to resist the urge to roll his eyes at the jealousy that was radiating from the blondes body, but he could kind of see where she was coming from and he was certain he would have been acting the same if the roles had been reversed.

"Of course," he nodded his head slowly when she firmly told him to forget the maids breast which was easy considering they were nothing overly special. "I look forward to it," he stated a smirk spreading across his face as his dark eyes trailed down her face landing on her chest that was moving with her breathing. "I love you too Poppy."

The male heard movement toward coming up the stairs, quickly he removed the blondes hands from his waisted, pressing his lips to hers again lightly he bed her goodnight with a warm smile before exiting the room quickly. The dark haired male saw his older brother coming up the stairs so quickly he ran to his room leaving him and Poppy alone.

---

Hamish walked up the stairs toward his fiancé's room. Inhaling deeply he entered unsure of what would happen. The male was surprised that his brother had raced to her aid so quickly. He had thought the two hated each other. Quickly he shook the thought from his head and opened the door where he found the blonde sitting on her bed running her fingers through her curls.

"Poppy, my love," he walked over to her slowly kneeling in front of her his eyes locking with hers.

---

Margret felt her blush spreading across her cheeks like wild fire but she nodded her head and hurried back to the castle where she would begin her plans for her escape. How to get both herself and Edward away from the castle without the guards capturing them or the future king finding out.

The red head was in a daze when she entered the castle so when the Queen walked up beside her she nearly screamed. "Your Highness," she greeted snapping herself out of her thoughts.

"Margret my dear. What on earth were you doing outside at this hour?"

"I was just thinking, about the Prince," she had to hold back her disgust even if it was a lie. The Queen smiled at her before a strand of straw caught her attention. Reaching forward she pulled the golden thread from the red heads dress.

"Straw?" the puzzled look on the Queens face caused the red head to become uncomfortable.

"I walked into the stables, I just wanted to see your beautiful horses up close. I have always had a fondness for the animals." she admitted which wasn't exactly a lie. The royal slowly nodded her head slowly before telling her that it best she get some sleep as it is going to be a big day tomorrow.

"Tomorrow?" Margret asked confused.

"Of course, the King and Prince go hunting, we are to attend."

"Oh..." the red heads stomach twisted harshly, Henry out in the open with a gun. A shiver ran down her spine but before she could object she was hurried off to her chambers.

Edward had somehow managed to make it home where he pushed his clothes and boots off, he crawled into his bed and touched his lips. The kiss still burning in his mind and he swore that his lips were still tingling, but that could also just be in his head. He wanted to see Margret again right now, so he could kiss her soft lips over and over again. He wanted to wrap her up in his arms and never let her go, he wanted to keep her away from the disgusting Prince and have her all to himself.

That would happen in time but he never was good at waiting, especially for anything that would make him happy and the Princess had already made him so happy. He laid there thinking about her, how beautiful she was and how she would make the perfect Queen. Though she didn't seem interested in being a Queen, he didn't want to stop that from happening one day but if she wanted to escape than he wouldn't stop her.

After a little while his eyes grew heavy and he had fallen asleep, tomorrow would be a busy day for him. The royals would want to go do something with Margret, meaning he'd have to get five horses ready and any equipment that they may need. He felt sick to his stomach just thinking about it, tomorrow would be much worse. Having to watch Henry take Margret away for the day.

---

Poppy watched Daniel leave her chambers and she sat down on her bed, she watched Hamish and looked into his eyes. "I wish to speak, my sweet Hamish. I understand that Claudia has been a maid here for many years, in those years you have grown to trust her and may even consider her a friend." She told the man who she was to wed shortly, however he wasn't the man that she wanted with all of her heart.

She cupped his cheeks with the palms of her hands, "But can she be truly trusted now? She exposed herself to your brother who apparently has never been interested in her in that way, she has told you lies about me in an attempt to stop us from marrying. She has never liked me, Hamish. I have tried my hardest to be liked by her, you have seen me try." Her blue eyes focused on his as she spoke to him, she needed and wanted Claudia gone but still wanted Hamish to agree with her.

"If she has already done these acts, how would she feel when we start a family together? Her jealously could become worse, she could easily get close to our little prince or princess." It was low of her to mention a family when she wasn't planning on staying, but she knew that Hamish wanted children shortly.

Hamish listened intently as his future wife spoke, her hands were soft and warm on his cheeks and even though she spoke about a serious topic he couldn't help but smile. Slowly he nodded his head understanding what she was saying. It was true the blonde had always tried to be friendly to the maid but had always received attitude or the cold shoulder which had always caused him to simmer with anger.

When the blonde mentioned starting a family with him he became more alerted and looked into her eyes intently. It was the first time she had ever mentioned a family.

"Of course, Of course you are right my darling, she must be removed." he spoke but couldn't help the wide smile that spread across his face, "You wish to have a family... I mean... uh..." he stumbled over his words trying to think of what to say. He was just so elated that nothing was coming out right.

---

Margaret was woken by her curtains being pulled open exposing the bright morning sun. A groan left her lips as her eyes cracked open. Slowly she sat up to find one of the many maids scurrying around collecting everything, she took the princesses chamber pot and threw the contents out the window.

"Good morning My Lady," she smiled as she placed the pot back on the ground. "Come you must be dressed for your day ahead with my Lord and the Queen and His Highness." Margaret's stomach knotted at the mention of the days plans. Slowly she nodded her head swallowing the bile that rose in her throat.

"Warm water is over there for you to wash," the maid pointed out as she walked over and began to pick out her dress for the day. Margaret just wanted to curl back and go back to sleep but hesitantly she got to her feet and walked over to the wash pot.

Henry was already washed and dressed, he tended to be a morning person unless he was out late the night before. But he knew that his parents wanted him and the Princess to join them on a trip, he wasn't looking forward to acting like he was interested in Margaret. Having to be nice to her for that period of time was going to be hard on him, he was pretty certain that the princess was also dreading this trip but sadly there was nothing they could do to get out of it.

He was sitting at the large dining table where he was eating his usual large breakfast, he needed his stomach to be full so he could tolerate being around the princess. The trip usually took a good few hours, his parents did this regularly and often stayed out over lunch so they could have a nice picnic together. He really hoped that a picnic wasn't being packed for today, but he'd only find out once he was on his horse ready to head out.

He had already tried speaking with his Mother about just Margaret going on the trip, he had been many times before and even told his Mother that he had royal things that he needed to get done. But of course, his Mother didn't have a bar of it and ordered him to come along so he was stuck.

---

Poppy felt horrible when Hamish's face lit up with her mentioning a family, but it was the only way to get Claudia away from the kingdom for good. "Of course, I wish to have a family. I have always wanted one of my own," She told her future husband which wasn't a lie, she did want to have a family but she just didn't want one with him. She smiled when he couldn't get his words out straight, she lightly stroked his cheek bones with her thumbs, she leaned up and pressed a soft kiss to his lips.

"We can talk about this later, it has been a long day. We both need to sleep, my sweet. I shall see you in the morning," She told him quietly and watched him as he moved out of her chambers, he still seemed to be slightly dazed about hearing that she wanted a family. Guilt filled her body and she hated that she was dragging Hamish along, he was such a nice person and deserved better. He deserved to be with someone who actually loved him in return.

She climbed back into her bed and found it very difficult to sleep that night, she would have only been asleep for a few hours before she was awaken by her maid. She wanted to stay in bed but knew she couldn't, so she dragged herself out and washed herself before slipping into another beautiful dress. She didn't know if she could stomach any food so she skipped breakfast and instead took a walk around the kingdom, in the hopes of clearing her mind and making her feel better.

The sun broke through Daniel's room, groaning he rolled over not wanting to get up, he wanted to sleep a little longer but from the flurry of noises coming from the hallway he knew he wouldn't be able to fall back to sleep so he pulled himself out of his bed. Rubbing his eyes he was about to step forward when the door to his room swung open and a maid scurried in. She carried a large pot of steaming water.

"Good morning My Lord," she smiled kindly before hurrying over and placing the pot down for the royal to wash himself before she bowed kindly and hurried out pulling the door closed behind her. Daniel shook his head before walking over to the water seeing the cloth in there. He began to wash himself ridding himself of the feeling of fatigue.

Sluggishly he changed into his day clothes and walked toward his door pulling it open just as he stepped out he was greeted by Poppy who was also walking down, her blonde hair was pulled on top of her head with a few stray curls falling down framing her face nicely.

"Good morning Princess."

---

Once Margret was dressed she was escorted out of her room and down the stairways until she stood before the King, Queen and Henry. It took all her strength not to curl her lip in disgust and roll her eyes. Instead she spread a smile across her face.

"Good Morning My Lords and Your Majesty," she curtsied in front of the family notching that to anyone who didn't know the intimate details of them would have thought them a perfect family. Unfortunately Margaret knew the truth. The red head didn't miss the look the Queen shot Henry causing him to walk toward her, wrap one of his arms around her waist and kiss her cheek gently.

"Now Princess are you ready for today?" the King asked.

"Of course My Lord," she lied, the thought of having to endure these people for a whole day made her want to scream, but she continued to remind herself that on the next full moon two nights from tonight she would be leaving. Free of this prison and this family forever.

Henry hated having to act like he actually liked and cared about the Princess, he wanted to pull his arm away from her and go do something else with his day. But sadly, he couldn't and he'd have to be pretending all day long. "Shall we be off?" He suggested to his parents who nodded their heads in agreement, he was about to walk over to his horse and climb on. Until he remembered that he'd have to help Margaret onto her horse, he stopped himself from rolling his eyes and waited until the stable boy placed a step for the Princess to use.

He placed his hands on her waist as she used the step to climb up onto the horse, he quickly waved the boy off before he walked over to his own horse. He easily climbed onto his horse, he did wait until his parents rode off before he followed them.

While they were still surrounded by locals, he rode beside the Princess but that changed in the second that they were away from the bulk of locals. He didn't move too far away from her in case his parents glanced behind to check on them, although they seemed to be busy speaking among themselves to notice what their son was doing. "If you say anything that I don't approve of, I won't be happy." He warned the Princess as he didn't want her telling his parents how badly he's been treating her.

---

Poppy hadn't been expecting Prince Daniel to exit his chambers at the time she was walking past, "Good morning." She spoke kindly to him even if she had the urge to push him back into his chambers and kiss him, she held that urge back as she knew they both had to make an appearance other wise someone would be sent to find them and that wouldn't end well for them.

"Please tell the King and Queen that I won't be joining them, I do not feel the best." She told Daniel as she just wanted to take a little walk around the Kingdom, she would visit the kitchen when she felt hungry enough to actually eat something. She would have liked if Daniel joined her, but that would only cause rumors to begin and she didn't want to go through that again. She wouldn't risk Hamish finding out, even if he'd find out eventually when she left the Kingdom with his younger brother.

She continued to walk through the castle as her dress moved around her feet, she lifted the front of her dress as she stepped down a staircase. A few strands of her curled blonde locks fell around her face, she turned her attention onto Daniel and glanced over at him. She was still surprised how much attractive he was to her, but she was letting her feelings grow for him.

Daniel allowed a smile to spread across his face as he bowed his head, "Of course," he tried to remain proper as they could be seen by anyone at any moment and he didn't want anything that was going on with them to come out. Not yet anyway. Daniel walked down the stair case however he lingered behind the blonde watching her as she moved, his eyes were hypnotised by the small details. The way the dress bodice hugged her perfectly highlighting her womanly curves that his hands yearned to reach out and grip. The way the skirt moved around her with every footstep and the way stray strands of her hair fell from her undo. Smiling he watched as she descended before heading toward the exit into the gardens.

Daniel wanted to follow her, to chase her through the rose bushes and into the maze of hedges where the two could kiss and not be seen by anyone but instead he continued to the dinning hall where his parents awaited as well as his brother.

Entering the room he bowed before the King and Queen. "Good morning, Father, Mother, Brother," he took his seat, "Princess Poppy is not feeling well so she cannot make breakfast this morning."

---

Margaret nodded her head not uttering a word as the Prince spoke to her, his words were harsh and full of spite. She simply turned her face the other way and watched the scenery she passed. It was nothing more then trees, an occasional animal could be seen racing across the green. Unsure whether it was a hare, a fox or simple field mouse. However the red head didn't care her thoughts floated away and she was transported back to the stables where Edward and her had shared an intimate moment.

Her lips tingled where the two had met, she couldn't stop the smile that stretched across her face. He had been gentle with her, he was the complete opposite of the Prince who rode ahead of her and she was grateful. Margaret was counting down the hours until she would leave the castle until she would be free and released from the marriage she didn't wish to be in.

"STOP!" the Kings voice boomed, quickly Margaret pulled on the reins of the mare she rode. The grey came to a stop as the King looked around. They all stood in silence for several moments before it was broken by the King once again "Continue," was all he said and they were off again. However Margaret couldn't help the uneasy feeling that spread across her.

Henry stopped suddenly when his father made them, his eyes were quick to scan the area but he couldn't see anything that should alarm them. His father did tend to be a little more protective when his wife was out with him, but having to stop because his old father thought he saw or heard something was just going to make this outing linger longer. Henry just wanted this to be over with so he could get away from the Princess and wouldn't have to act like the perfect son, he didn't think anything of it as the four of them continued on. His horse was still slightly in front of Margaret's, something that neither his parents seemed to pick up on which he was grateful for as he didn't want another lecture from his mother.

"It must have been an animal, my darling." The Queen spoke to her husband but it was better to be safe than sorry, especially now that the beautiful young Princess Margaret was spending more time with them. It would always be dangerous for them outside the Kingdom walls, but it was a beautiful place and one that the Princess must see before she becomes Queen and her duties keep her busy inside the Kingdom.

"The journey is not long, we shall reach it shortly." She told Margaret as she only took a quick glance back over her shoulder, she didn't notice that her son wasn't riding beside the Princess as she was enjoying the scenery far too much.

---

Queen Lilian looked at her youngest son when he spoke of the Princess not feeling up to breakfast, "That is a pity. I'm sure it is just nerves for the wedding, this is the most important day for any Princess. I to was nervous before marrying your father," She smiled at her husband who she was still madly in love with, they had been brought together in the exact same way as Hamish and Poppy. But luck had been on their side when they did fall in love with each other, as the food was brought to the table she quietly asked a maid to make sure that Poppy did eat at some time during the morning.

"Perhaps Daniel could check on her, I have business duties today with Hamish." The King spoke before he begun to eat and had no idea what he had just done, himself and Hamish were going to be busy for the next couple of days.

Poppy had found herself walking through the Kingdom before finding herself in the beautiful garden, she had been there a few times already and she did love the garden. She walked until she found an empty section by the rose bushes, she sat down on the grass not caring if her dress became dirty or not. She just needed some time alone so she could think about what she was doing, Daniel filled her mind again. The way his smile brightened the room and the feelings she felt when his dark eyes focused on only her, she wanted to feel his hands caress her body and to have his soft lips trail kisses over her skin.

Daniel looked at his mother nodding his head, "Of course," he bit his lip in order to stop a smile from spreading across his face. With Hamish out of the picture he would have a few days with the blonde all to himself and he almost couldn't contain his excitement. However he knew he would have to keep it well hidden and any emotions hidden while in the castle with his family. They were not to suspect anything. If need be he would return to being his normal self to the blonde simply to stop them figuring anything out.

Once they had finished their morning meal he watched as his father got to his feet Hamish following not long after. The two were already packed for their days away from the castle and it was only a matter of minutes before they would be leaving. It took every ounce of strength that Daniel possessed not to go outside and find the blonde.

The brown haired male watched as his family left the room before he snuck through the kitchens and out into the gardens where he knew the blonde had vanished into.

---

Margaret looked around as they continued to follow the king and his son. She grew tiresome and her thoughts began to wander back to Edward and the thoughts of what they two of them would do once they were out of the castle walls. She also worried about what was to happen when she left, would the come looking for her or would they simply let her be and the Prince would find another bride within the week.

Suddenly an ear piercing scream rang out jolting out of her thoughts, she didn't have a chance to register anything before her horse became spooked at the loud noise, rearing up she held on tightly to the reigns praying that she wouldn't fall off and in the next few minutes she was racing through the field on a scared horse, she swallowed the urge to scream instead she held out with all her strength as it was the only thing she could do